Beyond Politics: A Moral Reflection for the Nation

BISHOP RUPERTO SANTOS DD

“Now if your brother sins, correct him first in private…” (Matthew 18:15)

As a bishop and servant of the Filipino people, I speak not to condemn, but to call all of us— especially our leaders—to a deeper moral reflection. The recent public accusation made by Senator Imee Marcos against her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and his wife, Liza Araneta-Marcos, is troubling not only for its content but for the manner in which it was
delivered. Yes, the public has a legitimate right to be informed about the health and capacity of its leaders, especially the President. But publicly accusing a family member-without due process, without clear evidence, and outside the proper forum-undermines not only these values but also the dignity of all involved. Transparency in governance is a pillar of democracy. But we must also ask: Was this the right way, the right time, and the right spirit in which to raise such a grave concern? If this were truly an act of love and concern for a sibling and for the Filipino people, why only now—and why in such a manner? That was neither the time nor the place. This could have-and should have-been handled privately, with compassion and discernment.
The Gospel teaches us a different path: “Now if your brother sins, correct him first in private…”

(Matthew 18:15). Public rebuke should be the very last resort-especially when it risks becoming a spectacle rather than a sincere call to conversion.Still, this moment-however painful-can be a turning point. It is a call to:
Examine One’s Conscience (Makonsensya). Denial only deepens the wound. The path
forward begins with honesty before God, before self, and before the people. Whether one is the speaker or the subject, this is a time to ask hard questions of the heart. What is my intention? What truth must I face? What healing must I seek? Conscience is the quiet voice of God within us. It must guide our words, our actions, and our silence.

Let conscience speak. Leadership demands moral integrity. Public office is not just about power—it is about responsibility, transparency, and accountability. Forgive (Magpatawad). Forgiveness is not forgetting—it is choosing love over resentment. If wounds have been inflicted, whether through action or accusation, mercy must be offered. If you have stumbled, seek forgiveness-not only from the public, but from those closest to you. Forgiveness is not weakness—it is the beginning of healing. It is the courage to face the truth and the humility to ask for mercy. Families are not perfect, but they are meant to be places of reconciliation. Public figures, too, must model this grace-not only for their kin, but for the nation watching.

Transform (Magbago). If there is truth in the concern, then let there be transformation. This is your moment to change. Not just to defend yourself, but to renew yourself. If there is truth in the accusation, then let this be the beginning of conversion. Seek help. Seek healing. Seek holiness. The nation deserves a leader who is not only capable, but morally upright. Let us all learn from this. This is not just a political moment—it is a moral one. The Filipino people are watching. The youth are listening. What kind of example are we setting? Let us choose the path of conscience, forgiveness, and transformation. Let us build a society where truth is spoken with love, and love is lived with truth.

November 19, 2025
AN ADDRESS TO ALL CLERGY AND LAY FAITHFUL IN THE DIOCESE OF ANTIPOLO